Luxury Adults-Only Stay at Bahia Príncipe Ámbar, Punta Cana: Honest Review & Video Diary
Escaping to a warm destination during winter break is an investment worth every penny. With two full weeks off for the holidays, Joseph and I returned feeling completely rejuvenated. Facing limited overlapping time off this year, we splurged on a 7-night stay at the adults-only Bahía Príncipe Ámbar in Punta Cana, recommended by my cousin Paul and his girlfriend Lisa. From breathtaking scenery and exceptional cuisine to outstanding staff and captivating shows, it exceeded our expectations.
This expansive Bahía Príncipe resort in Punta Cana comprises seven interconnected properties. Shared amenities include sports bars, water parks, theaters, and restaurants, while adults-only sections offer exclusive access. We enjoyed one of the finest swim-up suites, with no issues whatsoever.
The Room
Our swim-up suite at Bahía Príncipe Ámbar was impeccable—spotlessly clean, air-conditioned, with strong water pressure, a well-stocked minibar, complimentary room service, a spacious patio with direct pool access, premium linens, and bathrobes/slippers. Recently renovated two years ago, the Ámbar section felt brand new and pristine.
To celebrate Joseph's birthday on arrival day, the staff surprised us with a special treat. See the full vlog for details: https://youtu.be/NL5rngL-nm0
During a media tour (arranged after expressing interest in reviewing for my site), we toured other room types. All were luxurious, featuring more ornate designs than Ámbar's sleek modern style.
Landscape & Beach
The resort boasts a stunning beach amid lush surroundings. We easily secured chairs in the adults-only (roped-off) beach and pool areas—never overcrowded. The property was impeccably maintained. Water conditions were 'yellow flag' (choppy); my manager noted worse weather the prior week. We had occasional rain but mostly sunny skies, except departure day. Kelp increased toward the end, common locally but minimally disruptive.
Entertainment
Daily 11 AM group activities led by the energetic Walter—rum tasting, tea blending, coffee grinding—were poolside highlights. The entertainment team was vibrant and engaging. Outdoor fitness included aquaspinning, stretching, and surf yoga. Despite peak season, space was plentiful. Evening shows featured a Queen tribute in The Village, lobby music/dance at Ámbar, and a spectacular The Lion King musical at the Punta Cana theater.
Gym
The state-of-the-art gym offered high-quality machines and guided classes. I tackled a challenging HIIT session.
Food & Dining
Unexpectedly, we received 7 à la carte credits, enabling a different restaurant each night, booked seamlessly via the Bahía Príncipe app. Ámbar's newer venues rivaled fine dining in Toronto—gorgeous cocktails, unlimited wine, generous three-course meals with fresh, flavorful dishes.
Dinner highlights:
RESTAURANTE JAPONÉS MIKADO – TEPpANYAKI
RESTAURANTE NIKKEI MASHUA
RESTAURANTE ITALIANO PORTOFINO
STEAK HOUSE M.E.A.T.
RESTAURANTE BELLA ITALIA (average)
RESTAURANTE RODIZIO LAS OLAS
RESTAURANTE GOURMET LIMBO
Buffets impressed with fresh fruits (like passion fruit), pastries, smoothies, savory items, and cold cuts—available indoors or outdoors for breakfast and lunch. Ámbar's coffee shop mimicked Starbucks, with complimentary espresso drinks and premium options like Irish coffee. The sports bar served local beers (included), imports for a fee, plus wings and burgers—ideal for groups, with TVs, foosball, and pool tables.
Tipping
We used U.S. cash: ~$2/night housekeeping, $2 dinner servers, $1-2 trolley/bus drivers, $1 baristas/bartenders for specialty drinks. Moderate drinking kept costs reasonable.
Overall, an outstanding vacation with diverse guests (British, Québécois, Europeans, Canadians). We stayed healthy by prioritizing handwashing and avoiding risky raw foods. For more Caribbean health tips, see my Cuba travel guide.
Happy travels!
